Bethel:
Found in the heart of Oxford county, Maine's breadbasket
of gemstones, Bethel lies amidst many of Maine's mountainous
splendors. Originally named Sudbury of Canada, Bethel
was renamed and incorporated just over two hundred years
ago and thus has a long and deep historic background.
Sebago Lake Area:
Maine's second largest lake, Sebago is a popular summer
destination. It covers 46 square miles and is famous
for trout fishing and landlocked salmon. Sebago Lake
Park consists of 1300 acres of lake front along the
Songo River. Numerous accommodations are available,
including camps, cottages and campsites for the outdoor
enthusiast. In the town of Sebago, panoramic views of
Sebago lake can be seen from atop Douglas Hill.
Naples:
On the north side of Sebago lake lies Naples. Here you'll
find the Songo Lock, constructed in 1830 to allow
passage of boats from Harrison down through the Cumberland
Oxford Canal to Portland Scenic boat and float plane
rides are available, as well as paddle boat and parasailing.
White Mountain National Forest:
Located north of Fryeburg by way of Route 133, or west
of Bethel on Route 2, this National Forest offers magnificent
hiking, scenic waterfalls, and a natural bridge. Camping
and other facilities are available in the area.
Rumford:
Oxford county's largest community, it is home to the
Boise Cascade Paper Company (one of the world's largest
suppliers of book paper). Route 17 takes you through
the towns of Mexico and then Byron, said to the be the
site of the country's first gold strike!
Norway:
Located near Oxford, Norway is a business and recreational
center. The area is rich in feldspar, quartz and other
semi-precious minerals and draws thousands of annual
visitors. Maine's state gemstone, the tourmaline, is
here, as is amethyst and aquamarine.
Farmington:
Surrounded by rolling hills and situated along the Sandy
River, Farmington acts as the commercial hub for Franklin
County. Many four-season areas are accessible from here,
including the Rangeley Lakes and Carrabassett Valley
regions. There is a trail system for snowmobilers, as
well as ski slopes for downhill skiiers. The Farmington
campus of the University of Maine presents concerts
and educational opportunities for the community.
Carrabassett River Valley:
This popular area of Maine is home to some of the best
skiing in New England at Sugarloaf/USA. The town of
Kingfield is surrounded by mountains and is a favorite
recreational area. Summer visitors can take in 18 holes
at the golf course at Sugarloaf/USA. Numerous accommodations,
restaurants, health clubs and spas are available.
Rangeley Lakes Area:
West of the Carrabassett area by way of Route 16, or
northwest from Farmington on Route 4 is the Rangeley
Lakes area. Dozens of hotels, lodges, restaurants, shops,
camps, and sports facilities await. Golf the Mingo
Springs golf course at 2,000 feet above sea
leaving for magnificent views and a challenging game.
Skiiers may want to visit the Saddleback Ski Resort,
which offers several lifts, downhill network of trails,
nordic ski trials, and over 100 miles of groomed snowmobile
trails. The Rangeley State Park offers picnicking,
swimming, fishing, camping, boating and more.
Lewiston-Auburn:
These twin cities, situated along the Androscoggin River,
make up the second largest metropolitan area in Maine.
An early favorite for Canadian and European immigrants,
the Lewiston-Auburn area has a diverse culture. French
is commonly spoken here. Lewiston-Auburn is a growing
arts community with several theatre companies, festivals
and events. The State of Maine Parade is held here each
year in May and draws thousands of spectators.
Lisbon:
Located just southeast of Lewiston, Libson offers industry,
development, coast, lakes and mountains. Beaver Park
is town-owned and offers hiking, fitness trails, swimming
and picnicking in the summer. In the winter, snowmobiling
and ice skating are favorite activities. This is home
to the annual Moxie Festival featuring a parade, barbecue,
bands, concessions, and, of course, plenty of Moxie
soda.
